The effects of infrared radiation on the human skin.

BACKGROUND: Infrared radiation (IR) is the portion of the electromagnetic spectrum between visible light (VL) and microwaves, with wavelengths between 700 nm and 1 mm. Humans are mainly exposed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation (UVR) and IR through the sun. Unlike UVR which is well known for its carcinogenic properties, the relationship between IR and skin health has not been as extensively studied; as such, we gather the available published evidence here to better elucidate this relationship. METHODS: Several databases including Pubmed, Google Scholar, and Embase were searched for articles relating to infrared radiation and the skin. Articles were selected for their relevance and novelty. RESULTS: Detrimental effects such as thermal burns, photocarcinogenesis, and photoaging have been reported, though evidence suggests that these may be due to the thermal effects produced secondary to IR exposure rather than the isolated effect of IR. There are currently no chemical or physical filters specifically available for protection against IR, and existing compounds are not known to have IR-filtering capacity. Interestingly, IR may have some photoprotective properties against the carcinogenic effects of UVR. Furthermore, IR has been used with encouraging results in skin rejuvenation, wound healing, and hair restoration when given at an appropriate therapeutic dose. CONCLUSION: A better understanding of the current landscape of research surrounding IR can help illuminate its effects on the skin and highlight areas for further research. Here, we review relevant data on IR to assess its deleterious and beneficial effects on human skin, along with possible means for IR photoprotection.

Imaging technologies for presurgical margin assessment of basal cell carcinoma.

Basal cell carcinoma is the most common cancer worldwide, necessitating the development of techniques to decrease treatment costs through efficiency and efficacy. Mohs micrographic surgery, a specialized surgical technique involving staged resection of the tumor with complete histologic evaluation of the peripheral margins, is highly utilized. Reducing stages by even 5% to 10% would result in significant improvement in care and economic benefits. Noninvasive imaging could aid in both establishing the diagnosis of suspicious skin lesions and streamlining the surgical management of skin cancers by improving presurgical estimates of tumor sizes. Herein, we review the current state of imaging techniques in dermatology and their applications for diagnosis and tumor margin assessment of basal cell carcinoma prior to Mohs micrographic surgery.

The value of photomedicine in a global health crisis: Utilizing ultraviolet C to decontaminate N95 respirators during the COVID-19 pandemic.

One early problem during the height of the COVID-19 global pandemic, caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome 2 (SARS-CoV-2), was the shortage of personal protective equipment donned by healthcare workers, particularly N95 respirators. Given the known virucidal, bactericidal, and fungicidal properties of ultraviolet irradiation, in particular ultraviolet C (UVC) radiation, our photomedicine and photobiology unit explored the role of ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI) using UVC in effectively decontaminating N95 respirators. The review highlights the important role of photobiology and photomedicine in this pandemic. Namely, the goals of this review were to highlight: UVGI as a method of respirator disinfection-specifically against SARS-CoV-2, adverse reactions to UVC and precautions to protect against exposure, other methods of decontamination of respirators, and the importance of respirator fit testing.

Coronavirus Disease 2019 and Dermatology Practice Changes.

The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on dermatology practice cannot be overstated. At its peak, the pandemic resulted in the temporary closure of ambulatory sites as resources were reallocated towards pandemic response efforts. Many outpatient clinics have since reopened and are beginning to experience a semblance of pre-pandemic routine, albeit with restrictions in place. We provide an overview of how COVID-19 has affected dermatology practice globally beginning with the rise of teledermatology. A summary of expert recommendations that shape the "new normal" in various domains of dermatology practice, namely, dermatology consultation, procedural dermatology, and phototherapy, is also provided.

Role of phototherapy in the era of biologics.

Phototherapy is a safe and effective treatment for many dermatologic conditions. With the advent of novel biologics and small molecule inhibitors, it is important to critically evaluate the role of phototherapy in dermatology. Surveys have shown that many dermatology residency programs do not dedicate time to teaching residents how to prescribe or administer phototherapy. Limitations of phototherapy include access to a center, time required for treatments, and insurance approval. Home phototherapy, a viable option, is also underused. However, it should be emphasized that modern phototherapy has been in use for over 40 years, has an excellent safety profile, and does not require laboratory monitoring. It can be safely combined with many other treatment modalities, including biologics and small molecule inhibitors. In addition, phototherapy costs significantly less than these novel agents. Dermatologists are the only group of physicians who have the expertise and proper training to deliver this treatment modality to our patients. Therefore, to continue to deliver high-quality, cost-effective care, it is imperative that phototherapy be maintained as an integral part of the dermatology treatment armamentarium.

Photobiomodulation for the management of hair loss.

Photobiomodulation, otherwise known as low-level laser (or light) therapy, is an emerging modality for the management of hair loss. Several randomized trials have demonstrated that it is safe and potentially effective on its own or in combination with standard therapies. These devices come in many forms including wearable caps or helmets that afford hands-free and discreet use. Models with light-emitting diodes (LEDs) are less expensive compared to laser-based devices and do not require laser safety considerations, thus facilitating ease of home use. Limitations include cost of the unit, risk of information bias, and lack of standardized protocols. Finally, as with any hair loss treatment, patients' expectations with regards to therapeutic outcomes must be managed.

Spectrum of virucidal activity from ultraviolet to infrared radiation.

The COVID-19 pandemic has sparked a demand for safe and highly effective decontamination techniques for both personal protective equipment (PPE) and hospital and operating rooms. The gradual lifting of lockdown restrictions warrants the expansion of these measures into the outpatient arena. Ultraviolet C (UVC) radiation has well-known germicidal properties and is among the most frequently reported decontamination techniques used today. However, there is evidence that wavelengths beyond the traditional 254 nm UVC - namely far UVC (222 nm), ultraviolet B, ultraviolet A, visible light, and infrared radiation - have germicidal properties as well. This review will cover current literature regarding the germicidal effects of wavelengths ranging from UVC through the infrared waveband with an emphasis on their activity against viruses, and their potential applicability in the healthcare setting for general decontamination during an infectious outbreak.

Ultraviolet-C and other methods of decontamination of filtering facepiece N-95 respirators during the COVID-19 pandemic.

During global health emergencies such as the current COVID-19 pandemic, the decontamination of single-use personal protective equipment (PPE) becomes a necessary means to keep up with the growing demand from healthcare workers and patients alike. Many unverified methods are being considered, which can pose the risk of incomplete decontamination and lead to catastrophic results. Several factors come into play when determining the suitability of such methods including the quality of the decontamination technique, the targeted pathogen, cost, ease of installation and use, rate of sterilization, and the surface or material to be sterilized. The germicidal properties of ultraviolet-C are well known. This review will cover the most commonly described methods for the sterilization of N95 respirators, namely, ultraviolet germicidal irradiation, hydrogen peroxide vaporization, microwave-generated steaming, and dry heating. These techniques have been tested previously and have demonstrated efficacy in reducing or inactivating viral and bacterial pathogens, although testing against SARS-CoV-2 specifically has not been done. Moreover, it must be emphasized that proper disposal after a single use is still ideal under normal circumstances.